With its ruling of 13 November 2024, CAS (supposedly) put an end to the Rafael Leão case. After more than six years of litigation, two FIFA, two CAS, and one SFT ruling, it seems that the matter can now be considered closed: LOSC Lille (LOSC) is jointly and severally liable to pay compensation amounting to EUR 16,500,000 to Sporting Lisbon (Sporting) for the termination without just cause by the player. What appears simple and straightforward on the surface is, on closer inspection, legally complex. This article aims to describe the lengthy proceedings and analyses the outcome.

Facts

Before discussing the legal aspects, it is important to understand the different proceedings and events that led to the latest CAS award.

In the 2017-18 season, Rafael Leão (Player or Leão) signed a five-year contract with Sporting. This...

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